This September, Basingstoke’s MP Maria Miller is supporting the Spot Leukaemia campaign, helping constituents to recognise the signs and symptoms of leukaemia.
Leukaemia is diagnosed in 10,000 people in the UK every year. Quite often, due to the non-specific nature of blood cancer symptoms, it can be difficult to spot leukaemia, potentially reducing the rates of early diagnosis and worsening outcomes for patients. That is why Leukaemia Care, a national charity is running annual Spot Leukaemia campaign, to increase awareness among both patients and GPs should they encounter the symptoms in the future.
Maria said; “On average 46 people in Basingstoke are currently living with leukaemia. A further 17 people will be diagnosed with leukaemia over the next year. Ensuring that you can spot the signs and symptoms of leukaemia can help diagnose leukaemia early. Early diagnosis saves lives.
A simple blood test is all that is required to either rule out, or diagnose, a blood cancer. If you are concerned about spotting the signs and symptoms, visit your GP and request a blood test.”
The signs and symptoms of leukaemia are often associated with those of unrelated, but common, illnesses. This can make leukaemia difficult to spot.
The most common symptoms in all ages are:
- Fatigue
- Feeling weak or breathless
- Fever or night sweats
- Easily bruising or bleeding
- Pain in bones or joints
- Frequent infections
To find out more about Spot Leukaemia and support the campaign, visit www.spotleukaemia.org.uk